Are you a gym rat or a fitness enthusiast always striving to take your workouts to the next level? Do you find yourself wondering what to eat for lunch to help you meet your daily calorie goals?
Look no further because we’ve got you covered! This post covers the best high-calorie lunch ideas that’ll keep you fueled for the rest of the day!
37 High-Calorie Lunch Ideas
1. Classic PB&J Sandwich
This classic American staple is a perfect combination of peanut butter, jelly, and bread that’s easy to make. Use whole-grain bread and natural peanut butter to keep things healthy.
2. Rice & Chicken
Cook up some brown rice and toss it with grilled chicken and a few veggies to create the perfect high-calorie lunch!
3. Avocado Toast
An avocado toast consists of a mashed avocado spread over a toast and topped with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Try it with some scrambled eggs or sliced chicken.
4. Quinoa Salad
A quinoa salad with mixed veggies, chickpeas, and roasted nuts, topped with a vinaigrette dressing, is an ideal high-protein, high-calorie salad.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are an easy and delicious high-calorie lunch option that’s also packed with nutrients. Top it with your favorite veggies, chicken breast or turkey, and a healthy oil of your choice.
6. Burritos
Load your burrito with chicken, rice, beans, and veggies for a satisfying high-calorie lunch.
7. Veggie Quiche
If you are a vegetarian or just want a break from meat dishes, try veggie quiches made with cheese, eggs, and veggies.
8. Tuna Salad
A tuna salad with mayo or Greek yogurt, chopped celery, onion, and dried cranberries is a quick and delicious high-calorie lunch.
9. Turkey & Cheese Sandwich
This classic sandwich combines protein and healthy carbs and is perfect for an on-the-go lunch option.
10. Lentil Soup
Lentil soup with some added veggies, olive oil, and whole-grain bread can provide you with the right amounts of protein, fiber, and loads of micronutrients.
11. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuff some bell peppers with brown rice, sautéed veggies, and chicken or ground beef for an easy and high-calorie one-pan meal.
12. Salad with Grilled Chicken and Feta Cheese
Add some grilled chicken, feta cheese, and a vinaigrette dressing to make this salad filling and high calorie.
13. Pesto Pasta
Cook up some pasta and mix it with pesto sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and grilled shrimp for a high-protein, high-carb, and high-calorie lunch.
14. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
A grilled chicken Caesar salad is a classic high-calorie lunch option that will never disappoint.
15. Meatball Sub
A meatball sub made with juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese is a filling and high-calorie sandwich option.
16. Pita Bread & Hummus
Pita bread dipped in hummus and topped with chopped veggies is a healthy and high-calorie lunch option.
17. Beef Chili
Try making an easy beef chili at home by using ground beef, beans, chili seasoning, and some veggies to make a high-protein, high-carb, and high-calorie one-pot meal.
18. Sushi
Sushi rolls made with brown rice, avocado, tuna, and salmon are high in calories and protein and make for a delicious lunch option.
19. Baked Ziti
Cook up some ziti pasta and bake it with cheese, marinara sauce, and ground beef for a satisfying high-calorie meal.
20. Turkey Meatloaf
Turkey meatloaf served with sweet potato wedges and green beans is a high-calorie, protein-packed, and delicious meal option.
21. Kabobs
Grilled chicken or beef kabobs with some veggies and brown rice are extremely easy to make and very filling.
22. Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Enjoy a creamy and indulgent lunch with chicken Alfredo pasta. Cook up some pasta, grilled chicken, and a rich Alfredo sauce.
23. Loaded Baked Potato
Top a baked potato with sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives for a hearty and calorie-rich meal.
24. Egg Salad Sandwich
Whip up some egg salad with mayo, mustard, and chopped pickles. Spread it between slices of bread for a satisfying sandwich.
25. Sausage and Peppers Sandwich
Sauté sausages with bell peppers and onions, then serve them in a hoagie roll for a flavorful lunch.
26. Tofu Stir-Fry
If you prefer a vegetarian option, create a tofu stir-fry with mixed veggies and a savory sauce served over rice or noodles.
27. Loaded Nachos
Pile up tortilla chips with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for a calorie-dense lunch.
28. Spinach and Bacon Salad
Combine fresh spinach leaves with crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a warm bacon dressing for a high-calorie salad.
29. Beef and Broccoli Bowl
Enjoy a classic beef and broccoli stir-fry with a savory sauce served over steamed rice.
30. Gyro Wrap
Wrap sliced gyro meat, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce in a warm pita bread for a delicious and calorie-rich meal.
31. Chicken Pot Pie
Savor a homemade chicken pot pie filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pastry crust.
32. Teriyaki Salmon
Grill or broil salmon fillets with a flavorful teriyaki glaze for a nutritious and calorie-dense lunch.
33. Meat Lover’s Pizza
Order or make a meat lover’s pizza topped with pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ham for a satisfying and indulgent meal.
34. Chicken Quesadillas
Create chicken quesadillas by combining diced chicken, cheese, and your favorite toppings in tortillas and cook until golden and cheesy.
35. Tuna Melt
Make a tuna melt sandwich with tuna salad, melted cheese, and your choice of bread or roll.
36. Mediterranean Platter
Assemble a Mediterranean platter with grilled chicken, hummus, pita bread, olives, and fresh veggies for a hearty and calorie-rich lunch.
37. Loaded Baked Beans
Enhance a pot of baked beans with sautéed onions, ground beef, and additional seasonings for a satisfying and high-calorie meal.
Final Thoughts,
There you have it, 37 high-calorie lunch ideas that’ll help you get through the day!
From classic sandwiches to high-protein salads, soups, and stews, there’s something for everyone on this list. Remember to eat a balanced and nutrient-dense meal to stay energized and kill it in your workouts!
